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Description
Aronia Melanocarpa, commonly known as black chokeberry, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It can grow up to 10 feet tall and has a spread of 6 feet. This plant is native to eastern North America and is known for its edible berries. The leaves of the plant are dark green and have a glossy finish. In the fall, the leaves turn a brilliant red color. Aronia Melanocarpa produces clusters of white flowers in late spring that turn into dark purple-black berries in the fall. The berries are about ¼ inch in diameter and have a tart flavor.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Aronia |
Appearance
Aronia Melanocarpa is a medium-sized shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall and has a spread of 6 feet. The plant has a rounded shape and produces multiple stems from the base. The leaves are dark green and have a glossy finish. They are oval-shaped and can grow up to 3 inches long. In the fall, the leaves turn a brilliant red color. Aronia Melanocarpa produces clusters of white flowers in late spring that turn into dark purple-black berries in the fall. The berries are about ¼ inch in diameter and have a tart flavor.
Care Guide
Aronia Melanocarpa is a hardy shrub that requires minimal care. Here are some care tips:- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the first growing season. After that, the plant can tolerate drought conditions.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Aronia Melanocarpa prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. If the soil is too alkaline, add sulfur to lower the pH.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Aronia Melanocarpa is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aronia Melanocarpa is relatively pest and disease-free. However, here are some common pests and diseases that may affect the plant:- Spider mites: These pests can cause leaves to turn yellow and fall off. Use insecticidal soap to control them.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Aronia Melanocarpa is native to eastern North America and can be found in wetlands, bogs, and swamps. It grows well in moist, well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Are the berries of Aronia Melanocarpa edible?
A: Yes, the berries are edible and are used to make juice, wine, and jam.
Q: Does Aronia Melanocarpa attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the berries attract birds and other wildlife.
Q: Is Aronia Melanocarpa invasive?
A: No, Aronia Melanocarpa is not considered invasive.
Q: When is the best time to plant Aronia Melanocarpa?
A: The best time to plant Aronia Melanocarpa is in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
– Aronia arbutifolia (red chokeberry)- Aronia x prunifolia (purple chokeberry)- Aronia floribunda (purple chokeberry)- Aronia mitschurinii (Mitschurin’s chokeberry)
References
– “Aronia Melanocarpa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280959&isprofile=0&.- “Aronia Melanocarpa.” Plant Care Today, 2 June 2020, plantcaretoday.com/aronia-melanocarpa.html.
